DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss launched Round One of the government’s new Bridges Renewal Programme and Round Four of the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Programme at the 2014 National General Assembly of Local Government in Canberra today.

“Local, territory and state governments will soon be able to put forward proposals to the Australian Government for both programmes from 1 July this year, with funding available from the 2014-15 financial year,” Mr Truss said.

“Our new Bridges Renewal Programme, announced during the election campaign, will provide $300 million over the next five financial years to cover up to 50% of repair and replacement costs for bridges across the nation.

“Round One will focus on projects that are sufficiently advanced that construction can begin in the 2014-15 financial year, so we can get moving on improving access to local communities and increasing productivity through bridges capable of carrying heavier vehicles.

“Councils with proposals that are not yet construction ready, I encourage to consult with industry and their communities to develop a proposal for round two, which I expect to announce next year.”

Mr Truss said proposals are also being sought, at the same time, for Round Four of the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Programme.

“The Budget also delivered on our election commitment, providing $200 million to continue this important programme through to 2019 - funding a range of projects to increase productivity and improve safety,” he said.

“Round Four will deliver $40 million each financial year and cover up to 50% of the cost of projects that increase productivity for heavy vehicles and improve the safety environment for heavy vehicle drivers.”

Mr Truss said governments at all levels should consult widely to identify priorities and develop projects. Applications for both programmes close on 28 August 2014 with announcement of successful projects in the second half of 2014.

To find out more about applying for the Bridges Renewal Programme visit: http://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/funding/Bridgesrenewal/Index.aspx. For the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Programme visit: http://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/funding/Heavyvehicles/Index.aspx